Mary Parts, One Body
Nourishing families and inspiring service across the community
When Alex Duval and Matt Hakes first met, they were teaching together at Blue Springs High School. Bonded by friendship and faith, they began noticing a growing need in the community for access to nutritious food. In July 2024, alongside their wives, they founded Many Parts, One Body. What began as a way for their families to serve together quickly grew into a community movement rooted in compassion, connection, and caring for neighbors.
Early on, they focused on delivering home-cooked meals, dropping groceries at doorsteps, and catering for shelters and foster care facilities. As the organization grew, they realized they could make an even greater impact by providing monthly grocery support to local families. They also partnered with other nonprofits to extend their reach. By catering fundraising events, such as those benefiting Missouri Disabled Sportsmen, they’ve helped save thousands of dollars, allowing for those funds to go directly back into the mission.
Many Parts, One Body remains deeply involved in the community through local events and partnerships. On May 29, they’ll host a cornhole tournament fundraiser for the Blue Springs Education Foundation to benefit the Kids R.O.C.K. fund, all while continuing their monthly grocery support for local families.
That commitment to service also extends to the next generation. With their backgrounds in education, Alex and Matt launched the Servant Leadership Academy, introducing students ages 12–16 to community service and creating more than 1,000 volunteer hours in its first year alone.
Looking ahead, the team hopes to launch a free community food truck that brings meals directly to neighborhoods and parks. Supported by volunteers and sponsors, they welcome anyone who wants to get involved as they continue nourishing families and expanding their impact across the community. Many Parts, One Body is not just providing groceries, they’re building a strong connected community, one act of service at a time.
Gilda’s Club Kansas City
Offering community and support for individuals and families navigating cancer
Facing a cancer diagnosis can feel isolating, but in Kansas City, Gilda’s Club is ensuring that no one has to navigate it alone. Since opening its doors in 2011, Gilda’s Club Kansas City (GCKC) has provided free, professionally led support, education and social programs to individuals and families affected by cancer across the metro area. Their mission is simple yet profound: to meet people where they are, address emotional and social well-being, and create a community of support that complements medical care.
GCKC serves patients, survivors, caregivers, children, and loved ones through a wide variety of programs, including support groups, individual counseling, educational workshops, and wellness activities focused on nutrition, stress reduction, and gentle exercise. They also offer social connection events, from comedy nights to game nights, promoting friendship and shared experiences. Specialized programs offer additional support for youth and families navigating the challenges of cancer.
Anyone impacted by cancer is welcomed at GCKC, regardless of their hospital system, insurance coverage, or financial situation. Programs are offered both in-person and virtually, making access possible for anyone, regardless of mobility or location. All programs are offered at no cost, allowing families to focus on connecting, finding support, and building community without worrying about financial barriers.
The impact GCKC has is life changing. Individuals and families consistently report improvements in quality of life, increased feelings of hope and reassurance that they are not alone, and a stronger sense of empowerment to manage their own or a loved one’s health journeys. By removing barriers such as cost and location, GCKC ensures that support is available to everyone who needs it, while building stronger, more connected communities.
Looking ahead, GCKC hopes to expand its reach and deepen its impact so that every individual and family facing cancer knows there is a welcoming, supportive space available at no charge. Community members can contribute through volunteering, financial support, corporate partnerships, or simply spreading awareness about GCKC and its mission. Every effort strengthens a network of care, proving that even in the most challenging moments, no one has to face cancer alone.